Aguinaldo Shrine

Pagsanjan Falls

Taal Lake

Antipolo Church

Lucban Pahiyas Feast

PIA Calabarzon 5 PRs ( April 23 , 2013), Dispatch for April 24 , 2013 (Wednesday),
13 Photonews , 12 Weather Watch, 3 Regl.Watch , 2 OFW Watch , 16 Online News

Weather Watch
11 hours ago PAGASA: A partial lunar eclipse which will be visible in the Philippines on April 26, 2013. The umbral eclipse magnitude will be 1.47 percent and will also be visible primarily in Australia, most of Asia, Africa, Europe and Antarctica. The eclipse will begin at 2:03am Philippine Standard Time (PST) and will end at 6:11am PST.

In Manila, the moon will rise at 5:43pm on April 25 and will set at 5:40am on April 26. The major phases of the eclipse are as follows: Penumbral eclipse begins: 2:03am Partial eclipse begins: 3:54am Partial eclipse ends: 4:21am Penumbral eclipse ends: 6:11am Lunar eclipses are safe to watch, hence, observers need not use any kind of protective filters for the eyes. A pair of binocular will help magnify the view and will make the red coloration of the Moon brighter.

Weather Watch
8 minutes ago near Quezon City, Philippines DZRH: Patuloy na makakaapekto ang easterlies sa silangang bahagi ng bansa na magdudulot ng maulap na papawirin na may kasamang pabugso-bugsong pagulan. Samantala, mainit na panahon pa rin ang iiral sa Metro Manila na may paminsan-minsang pag-uulap ng papawirin. Ang araw ay nagpakita kaninang 5:36 ng umaga at lulubog mamayang 6:11 ng gabi.

Weather Watch
2 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines PAGASA weather forecaster Ricky Fabregas on DZMM Re: Temperatura -Yung pinakamataas po maximum temperature 1:00pm kahapon 35.5. -Ngayon medyo mababa ang tiyansa na magkakaroon tayo ng pag-ulan. -Sa silangang bahagi ng bansa doon po yung mga possibility na magkaroon ng isolated thunderstorm. -Sa araw na ito ang forecast natin na temperature 25-36 degree celcius.

Weather Watch
2 hours ago PIA-13: PAGASA 24 HR. PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST issued at 5:00a.m. of April 24, 2013 SYNOPSIS: Easterlies affecting the eastern section of the country. FORECAST: The whole country will have partly cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms mostly over the eastern section. Light to moderate winds blowing from the east to southeast will prevail over Luzon and coming from the east to northeast over Visayas and Mindanao. The coastal waters throughout the archipelago will be slight to moderate

Weather Watch
12 hours ago PAGASA weather forecaster Manny Mendoza DZBB: - Ang buong bansa at ang Metro Manila ay magkakaroon ng bahagyang maulap na papawirin na may pulu-pulong pag-

ulan lalo na sa silangang bahagi nito dahil sa easterlies.

Weather Watch
13 hours ago GMA: Isang aso ang naiulat na namatay sa Laoag City, Ilocos Norte dahil sa heatstroke. Naging matamlay umano ito hanggang sa manghina at sumuka pa ito ng dugo bago namatay. Isang beterinaryo naman ang nagsabi na isang palatandaan ng heatstroke ang pagsusuka ng dugo. Madalas din umanong tamaan ng heatstroke ang mga aso kapag tag-init.

Weather Watch
12 hours ago GMA: Patuloy na mararanasan ng Metro Manila at ilang bahagi ng bansa ang mainit na panahon. Asahan ang maaliwalas na panahon sa hilagang kanluran ng Luzon partikular sa Dagupan. Makakaranas din ng maaliwalas na panahon ang Visayas. Posible namang makaranas ng localized thunderstorms ang ilang bahagi ng Mindanao. Sinabi naman ng PAGASA na aktibo pa rin ang easterlies na nakakaapekto sa panahon sa silangang bahagi ng bansa.

Weather Watch
13 hours ago ABS-CBN: Asahan bukas ang maulap na panahon na may pag-ulan sa Tuguegarao at Baguio habang mas maganda naman ang panahon sa Naga at Legazpi. Ang Metro Manila naman ay may 20% chance of rain bukas, 70% pagdating ng Huwebes habang 80% naman pagdating ng Biyernes. Asahan naman bukas ang maulap na panahon na may pag-ulan sa Samar habang posibleng makaranas ng katamtamang ulan sa hapon ang Bohol. Asahan naman ang pag-ulan sa Surigao, Davao, Gensan at Cotabato.

Weather Watch
16 hours ago PAGASA weather forecaster Manny Mendoza on DZBB: - 35.5C ang maximum (temperature sa Metro Manila) na naitala kaninang 1:00pm. - Sa Subic, 37.5C kaninang 2:00pm kasi malapit ito sa dagat. - Naitala naman ang 36.8C sa Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija kaninang 2:00p.m. - Naitala naman ang 36.4C sa Dagupan habang 33.1C naman sa Tuguegarao kaninang 2:00 ng hapon. - Sabi ng observers namin, bumaba na ang temperatura sa Metro Manila at hindi na ito tataas.

Weather Watch
17 hours ago GMA News TV: Kinumpirma ng BFAR Region 11 na nagpositibo sa red tide toxin ang Balite Bay sa Davao Oriental. Ipinagbabawal ang pagkuha at pagkain ng lamang-dagat, gaya ng shellfish at alamang mula roon. Inaasahang tatagal pa ang red tide roon ng dalawang linggo. Nagpositibo rin sa red tide toxin ang Domanquillas Bay sa Zamboanga Del Sur.

Weather Watch
16 hours ago DZRH: Iminungkahi ni Sen. Ralph Recto sa pamahalaan na magpadala ng humanitarian mission upang matulungan ang mga biktima ng malakas na lindol sa China. Apela niya, sa panahon ng kalamidad ay dapat isantabi ng Pilipinas ang anumang hindi pagkakaunawaan sa China, lalo na sa isyu ng West Philippine Sea. Aniya, malaki ang maitutulong ng Philippine humanitarian contingent sa evacuation at rehabilitasyon, lalo na't may mahigit 200 ang naiulat na namatay sa lindol.

Weather Watch shared Dost_pagasa's status.

21 hours ago THUNDERSTORM WATCH Issued at 10:00 AM, 23 April 2013 Thunderstorm is more likely to develop over Metro Manila within 12 hours. All are advised to monitor updates.

Weather Watch

April 24 , 2013 (Wednesday)

6 hours ago

CAVITE LAGUNA

: Sunny : Sunny

BATANGAS : Fair weather RIZAL : Sunny QUEZON : Sunny

PIA

Regional Watch

PIA Regional Watch

14 hours ago PIA-4A/LAGUNA: Thirty six researchers and experts on vegetable and coffee recently met at the Philippinne Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) to discuss concerns related to the zeroing in on the implementation of the Industry Strategic S& T Plants (ISPs). ISPs are medium term strategic plans for the identified ariculture , aquatic and natural resources commodity enterprises

PIA Regional Watch

14 hours ago PIA-4A/LAGUNA:The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARD) recently conducted its first Intellectual Property (IP) training for 2013 held at the Council's headquarters in Los Banos, Laguna. The training aims to generate IP applications from technologies generated from PCAARD-DOST funded resources and increase the number of researchers in the network with deeper appreciation of IP tools and protocols

PIA Regional Watch

Monday PIA 4A/BATANGAS: Nagsagawa ng public consultation ang Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp. Hinggil sa environmental impact ng liquefied natural gas import terminal project na nakatakdang itayo sa Batangas City sa taong 2016.Ito ay upang mabigyang linaw ang naturang proyekto at maipaabot sa konsernadong sektor ang kasagutan sa mga katanungan at rekomendasyon ukol dito.

PIA OFW Watch

16 hours ago

DZMM: Nanganganib na mawalan ng trabaho ang mahigit na sa 1,000 OFW sa bansang The Bamahas dahil sa bagong
panuntunan na ipinatutupad doon para sa mga dayuhang manggagawa dahil ang mga trabaho na mga foreign worker ay ibibigay na sa mga Bahamian na walang trabaho.

PIA OFW Watch

17 hours ago

DZRH: Binigyang diin ni Team PNoy senatorial candidate Sonny Angara na malaki ang magagawa ng DFA upang
matulungan ang mga stranded na mga OFW sa Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Mahalaga aniyang makauwi agad ang mga OFW na ito dahil sa matindi na ang hirap na pinagdaanan ng mga ito na nakatira sa Tent City sa harap ng konsulado ng Pilipinas sa Jeddah.

A. QUEZON
Mall supports tourism program of Quezon Province
By Joselito M. Giron Tuesday 23rd of April 2013 TweetFacebookYahooEmailShareThis LUCENA CITY, Quezon, April 23 (PIA) -- The provincial government of Quezon will strengthen the tourism industry in the province by launching "Hello Quezon" program. Quezon Gov. David Suarez said the program will showcase local festivals, traditions, culinary, products, arts and culture of the province to be held in SM City Lucena from April to May 2013. The likes of Lubid-Lubid Festival of Tiaong, Quezon; Laguimanok Festival of Padre Burgos, Quezon; Tebolan Festival of Jomalig, Quezon; Pahiyas Festival of Lucban, Quezon and Kaway Festival of Tagkawayan, Quezon will be featured in a month-long showcasing of festivals in SM City, the governor said. He added this program will promote the tourism industry in the province and boost local economy of the participating towns.

Meanwhile, SM City area public relation manager Lilibeth Azores said they support this kind of project because it will contribute in the development of tourism industry in the province. (CPG/JMG/PIA4A-Quezon)

B. CAVITE
1. Calabarzon entrepreneurs take on food safety management workshop

Tuesday 23rd of April 2013 TweetFacebookYahooEmailShareThis TAGAYTAY CITY, Cavite, April 23 (PIA) -- More than 20 food processors and potential food exporters participated in a two-day workshop on food safety management for Calabarzon food enterprises at the Development Academy of the Philippines recently. The workshop, jointly facilitated by the Department of Trade and Industrys (DTI) Bureau of Export Trade and Promotions (BETP), the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC), and the Regional Operations and Development Group under the Regional Interactive Platform for Philippine Exporters (RIPPLES) program, aims to prepare Calabarzon food firms to be compliant with international food safety requirements. Food safety management touches on the procedures for the safety of water supply; condition and cleanliness food contact surfaces; prevention of cross-contamination; maintenance of hand washing, hand sanitizing; protection of food, food packaging materials; protection of food from adulteration with contaminants; proper labeling, storage, and use of toxic compounds; and control of employee health conditions. DTI Calabarzon Regional Director Marilou Quinco-Toledo urged entrepreneurs in the food sector to take advantage of the training workshop to be able to implement a food safety management system and eventually establish a HACCP system for each firm. To access the export market, food producers and processors must implement a food safety management system which is certified to the HACCP (hazard analysis critical control point) system. HACCP is a system to prevent, reduce, or eliminate potential food safety hazards and is by far the most recognized framework for a food safety management system. Toledo indicated optimism that through DTIs ongoing programs for the development and growth of enterprises, the Calabarzon food sector would be able to provide safe food out to the world. While we aim to satisfy our foreign buyers, we should keep in mind that our domestic consumers merit the same level of satisfaction as well, Toledo recapped. (CSDajao/DTI4 A/CPG/PIA4A)

C. LAGUNA
DOST-Calabarzon invites participants to 2013 Regl Inventions Contest & Exhibits
By Carlo P. Gonzaga Tuesday 23rd of April 2013 TweetFacebookYahooEmailShareThis
LOS BANOS, Laguna, April 23 (PIA) --The regional office of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Calabarzon is inviting inventors and student/professional creative researchers to join the 2013 regional inventions contest and exhibits (RICE). According to DOST-Calabarzon, the event scheduled on June 17-21, 2013 with tentative venue at Waltermart Tanauan in Batangas will serve as the qualifying round for the National Inventions Contest slated in July 2014. The contest has six categories, namely: Invention Category (Tuklas Award); Utility Model Category; Industrial Design Category; Creative Research Category (Likha Award); Student Creative Research Category (Sibol Award) for High School; and Student Creative Research Category (Sibol Award) for College. Only one entry from an individual/institution will be accepted per category, however, for universities/colleges involved in research or with many campuses, a maximum of three entries will be accepted. Duly accomplished and notarized forms must be submitted to the provincial S&T centers (PSTC) not later than April 30, 2013 or at DOST IV-A office not later than May 3, 2013. The preliminary screening is scheduled on the second week of May 2013. One qualifier per category will receive a cash prize and certificate of recognition during the awarding and closing ceremonies and will serve as finalist for the national inventions contest. Entry forms, guidelines and directory of provincial S & T centers can be downloaded from region4a.dost.gov.ph. For inquiries, please contact Ms. Naji Piamonte (najipiamonte@yahoo.com) or Ms. Myrna Servaez ( myrnaservanez@yahoo.com) at (049) 5365013/4997. (CPG, PIA4A with report from DOST4A)

Pinoy diet low in zinc

By Carlo P. Gonzaga Tuesday 23rd of April 2013

TweetFacebookYahooEmailShareThis LOS BANOS, Laguna, April 23 (PIA) -- Zinc is one of the essential minerals because of its importance in approximately 100 enzyme activities that support the many body processes. Considered an ubiquitous and versatile trace element, zinc has varied supporting roles in the epidermal, gastrointestinal, central nervous, immune, skeletal, and reproductive systems. Zinc is needed for a healthy immune system, synthesis of DNA, wound healing, and growth and development in children, adolescents, and pregnant women. It was in 1961 when zinc deficiency was associated to be a contributory factor in varied diseases. Since then, several studies had been conducted, particularly in developing countries, on dietary zinc supplementation. These studies led to increased public awareness on the health importance of human zinc deficiency on a

global basis, propelling zinc as a micronutrient of special importance in human nutrition. The signs and symptoms associated with zinc deficiency are growth retardation, diarrhea, hair loss, loss of appetite, eye and skin lesions, white spots on the fingernails, increased prevalence of infections, poor pregnancy outcomes like impaired fetal development, impaired neurobehavioral function in children, and delayed sexual maturation and impotence. The possible widespread occurrence of zinc deficiency in past decades requires the urgency to assess the prevalence of zinc deficiency in representative samples of at-risk populations with the use of direct indicators of zinc status. The Philippines, considered as one of the developing countries with reported incidence of malnutrition, has limited data on the zinc status of its population. Hence, researchers of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) led by Juanita M. Marcos, Science Research Specialist of the Nutrition Research and Development Division, determined the serum zinc levels and magnitude of zinc deficiency among selected population of household members included in the FNRIs seventh National Nut rition Survey. The selected populations included six-month-old infants up to five-year-old preschoolchildren; 1319-year-old females; pregnant women; and the 60-year-old and over elderly males and females. Biomarkers used in determining zinc deficiency are either serum or plasma zinc. The study reveals a high magnitude, from 20 33 percent of zinc deficiency among the selected population groups. In the FNRI study, serum zinc of the selected population was compared with the International Zinc Nutrition Consultative Group (IZiNCG) suggested cut-offs for serum zinc and the guidelines for public health concern. The researchers recommend strategies that may assist planners and policymakers in identifying intervention programs and policies to improve zinc nutrition of the at-risk population groups. These strategies include continuous assessment of zinc status during the conduct of the national nutrition surveys, identification or determination of the risks factors in the development of zinc deficiency, and development of a food database on the zinc content and inhibitors that would be helpful in determining zinc intake. (CPG/MAUdarbe-DOST/PIA4A)

D. BATANGAS
Tagalog news: Konsultasyon, isinagawa ukol sa pagtatayo ng LNG import terminal sa lungsod
By Mamerta P. De Castro Tuesday 23rd of April 2013

TweetFacebookYahooEmailShareThis LUNGSOD NG BATANGAS, Abril 23 (PIA) -- Nagsagawa ng public consultation sa ikatlong pagkakataon ang Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corporation (PSPC) noong Abril 1 hinggil sa environmental impact ng Liquefied

Natural Gas (LNG) import terminal project na nakatakdang itayo sa 2016. Ang konsultasyon na dinaluhan ng mga kinatawan mula sa mga barangay ng Tabangao, Ambulong, Libjo, Ilijan at Mabacong (TALIM), akademya, lokal na pamahalaan at non-government organizations ay naglalayong higit na mabigyang linaw at maiparating sa mga sektor na may kaugnayan sa usapin, ang mga kasagutan sa katanungan, komento at rekomendasyon tungkol sa proyekto. Sinabi ni Valerie Ku, LNG business development manager ng PSPC, na matapos maiprisinta ang environmental impact assessment ng LNG import terminal project, hihintayin na lamang nila ang environmental compliance certificate (ICC) mula sa Department of Environment and Natural Resources upang masimulan ang proyekto. Ayon pa sa Shell, ang itatayong terminal na floating storage at regasification ay pangangasiwaan ng Architectural Engineering Construction Operating Maintenance. Ang naturang grupo din ang ang nagsagawa ng pag-aaral at nagpresenta ng resulta ng environmental impact assessment ng LNG import terminal project sa lupa, tubig, hangin at sa mga mamamayan na malapit sa lugar na pagtatayuan nito. Ipinaabot ng pamunuan ng Shell ang kanilang pasasalamat sa lokal na pamahalan sa suportang ipinagkakaloob nito upang maisulong ang proyekto na magiging kauna-unahan sa bansa at inaasahang magbibigay ng hanapbuhay sa maraming Batangueno. Ang LNG ay isang clear, colourless, non-toxic liquid na nag reresulta kapag ang natural gas ay pinalalamig ng umaabot sa -160C. Pinapaliit nito ang volume ng gas ng 600 beses kung kayat mas madali itong iimbak at itransport sa mga markets sa buong mundo. Ang natural gas ay ligtas at malinis na mapagkukunan ng enerhiya subalit marami sa mga bayan at siyudad na nangangailangan ng enerhiyang ito ay malayo sa gas fields. Ang pagpapadala ng gas sa pamamagitan ng pipeline ay magastos at hindi praktikal kung kayat ang LNG Import Terminal ang isang alternatibong paraan ng distribution ng gas. Bago ang konsultasyon, nagdaos muna ng dalawang orientation at information education campaign (IEC) noong Setyembre 2012 at public scoping noong Oktubre 2012. (CPG/Ronna Endaya Contreras, City PIO/BPDC, PIA-Batangas)

E. RIZAL

23 APRIL 2013.

President Aquino vows to bring justice for Mayor Guingona of Gingoog City Aquino announces opening of Laguindingan Airport in June 15; expects enhanced regional growth OFWs in Brunei thank Philippine government for chance to cast vote President Aquino signs Republic Act No. 10515 otherwise known as Anti-Cable Television and Cable Internet Tapping Act of 2013 Palace says local candidates must assist government in stopping of New Peoples Army extortion activities Palace optimistic on adoption of binding Code of Conduct in South China Sea Malacanang says Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines already provided displacement compensation to 28 fisherfolk families affected by Aurora Pacific Ecozone and Freeport Authority
President Aquino vows to bring justice for Mayor Guingona of Gingoog City

President Benigno S. Aquino III vowed on Monday to find the armed group who attacked Gingoog Mayor Ruthie Guingona and her companions and bring them to justice. In his speech during a meeting with the local leaders and the community at Jose Pelaez Roa Park in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental, the Chief Executive condemned the attack on Mayor Guingona at a hinterland village in Misamis Oriental on Saturday night. Reports showed that unidentified gunmen ambushed Guingona's convoy past 11 p.m. Saturday, killing a bodyguard and a driver, and wounding the Mayor Guingona. "Alam po ninyo masaya ako sa inyong pinakitang napakainit na pagtanggap pero maski papaano po may kaunting kalungkutan dahil nabalitaan naman po natin ang nangyaring pag-ambush kay Ruth Guingona, ang ina po ni Marie Guingona na tumatakbo bilang mayor ng Gingoog City," the President said. President Aquino issued a directive to law enforcement agencies to pursue the group behind the violence. "Nangangako po ako sa abot ng ating kapangyarihan at kakayahan, at sa ngalan po ng batas, mananagot po ang dapat managot. Hahabulin at dadakpin po natin ang mga taong nasa likod ng karahasang ito," he stressed. The President also assured the people that various infrastructure projects and road projects are now in place to improve the transportation system in the province of Misamis Oriental as part of efforts to enhance the tourism and business sectors. He said the new Laguindingan International Airport is expected to cater to the increasing demand of air passengers and cargoes. The project is also expected to boost the economic activities of the Cagayan-Iligan Corridor, and the Northern Mindanao Region. The new airport is set to start operation this year. It sits on a 4.17 square kilometer site in Barangay Moog, Lagundingan, and is located 46 kilometers from the existing Lumbia Airport. Upon completion, it will be the fourth international airport in Mindanao, after General Santos International Airport in General Santos City, Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City and Zamboanga International Airport, as well as the first international airport in Northern Mindanao, or Region X. He also assured the people that his administration continues to provide government funding for various projects to further develop the agriculture industry in the province and the entire country. "This year, pangako sa atin ni Secretary Proceso Alcala ng Agriculture, baka hindi lang tayo self-sufficient, mage-export pa tayo," he said. The Chief Executive said that the institutionalization of educational reforms remain hi s administrations top priority in order to improve the country's educational system. "Noong nagumpisa ako sabi sa akin 66,800 classrooms ang kulang ng Pilipinas. Ang kaya ng budget po natin every year --- 8,000 classrooms. Six years ang binigay ninyo sa akin, eh di 48,000 classrooms na. May utang pa ako pagbaba ko sa 2016. Pero magandang balita po, ayon sa DepEd, tapos na ang backlog natin bago matapos ang 2013. Wala na pong kulang na classrooms," he said. PND (js) TOP Aquino announces opening of Laguindingan Airport in June 15; expects enhanced regional growth

BALINGASAG, Misamis Oriental) President Benigno S. Aquino III expressed confidence that the opening of the Laguindingan Airport in June 15 this year will further enhance the growth of tourism and trade in Northern Mindanao and nearby areas as the new facility serves as a gateway of Mindanao to the rest of the world. Ang magagandang nangyayari nga po sa bayan ng Balingasag ay sumasalamin sa progresibong tagumpay ng

inyong lalawigan. Nariyan ang bagong world-class airport sa Laguindingan, na bubuksan na sa Hunyo 15 nitong taon na ito, the President said in his message during his meeting with local leaders and the community here. Inaasahan nating talaga namang malaki ang maitutulong sa ating ekonomiya dito po sa inyong lalawigan at sa buong Kalakhang Mindanao, he added. Aside from the Laguindingan Airport, the President said that the administration has also funded 27 irrigation projects, in which the government allotted more than P225 million, he said. The project is expected to benefit the farmers of Opol, Manticao, Claveria, Sugbongcogon, Naawan, Alubihid, Hasaan, El Salvador, Hingoog and Cagayan de Oro City. According to the President, the government also funded the construction of 18 farm-to-market roads in Misamis Oriental. While the government focuses in building major infrastructure in Misamis Oriental, it hasnt forgotten the survivors of Typhoon Sendong in giving them new shelter so they could start new lives. May halos 4,500 kabahayan na tayong naipatayo sa 8,600 housing units na target natin para sa Cagayan de Oro resettlement sites. Yung natitira po ang balita koy kasalukuyang ginagawa at marami na pong malapit nang matapos, the President said. More than 1,000 families living at Isla de Oro, a danger area, have been relocated by the government and livelihood has been provided the families. Aside from the governments thrust to relocate the affected fami lies, the administration has also allotted P12-million for the Self-Employment Assistance Kaunlaran as well as P23 million for cash-for-work program. At hindi po tayo titigil sa pagbubuhos ng mga proyektot programa dito sa Misamis Oriental, dahil hangad nating ilapit ang ating mga Boss ang taumbayan sa katuparan ng kani-kanilang mga pangarap, the President said. The President urged the people of Misamis Oriental to support the leaders of the province allied with the administration to ensure the continuity of government projects. PND (as) TOP OFWs in Brunei thank Philippine government for chance to cast vote

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM) Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) here have expressed deep gratitude to the Philippine government for being given a chance to participate in this years midterm elections and to practice their right of suffrage by casting their votes via the Overseas Absentee Voting Act. The Overseas Absentee Voting Act, officially known as Republic Act No. 9189, is a law in the Philippines passed on February 13, 2003 providing for a system for citizens of the Philippines currently residing or working outside of the Philippines to vote in an election. This act was a consolidation of Senate Bill No. 2104 and House Bill No. 3570, the first draft was authored in congress on July 22, 2002. The act is implemented by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) with the help of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). Filipinos Mike and Irene Tolentino, long time residents of Brunei Darussalam said in an interview that being given the chance to choose the next set of Philippine leaders and lawmakers was an honor and a right not to be taken lightly. They hoped that the people they voted for would continue to look after and act towards ensuring the safety and upholding the rights of OFWs around the world. Isang malaking karangalan na kaming mga Pilipino na nasa overseas ay mabigyan ng karapatan na bomoto o maghalal ng mga kababayan namin na karapat-dapat na umupo sa ating pamahalaan, Mrs. Toledo said. Sana po, ang aming mga binoto ay siyang manalo dahil palagay namin po ay sila ay karapat -dapat na umupo, na gumawa ng mga tungkulin para manilbihan sa mga Pilipino lalung-lalo na sa mga overseas worker, she added. The DFA said in an earlier statement that OFWs here have begun casting their votes since April 13, 2013. Voting is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. during office hours, Monday to Sunday, including public holidays. There will be an hour-long lunch break everyday between Sunday and Thursday, and a two-hour noon break on Friday, when voting hours are extended until 6:00 p.m. The Embassy has urged all Filipino overseas voters to cast their votes early to avoid any inconvenience. Meanwhile, the Commission on Elections has said that it expects a 60 percent voters turnout during the midterm elections this year among the 737,759 OAVs from Asia, the Middle East, United States, Europe and the seafarers. They are voting for 12 senators and one party list. PND (rck) TOP President Aquino signs Republic Act No. 10515 otherwise known as Anti -Cable Television and Cable

Internet Tapping Act of 2013

President Benigno S. Aquino III signed into law Republic Act No. 10515 otherwise known as the "Anti-Cable Television and Cable Internet Tapping Act of 2013" that is aimed at protecting the cable television and cable internet industries from cable pilferage. Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte announced during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Tuesday that the Chief Executive signed the law last April 17, 2013. The law prohibits cable television and internet tapping and penalizes offenders with imprisonment of two to five years or a fine of P50,000 to P100,000 or both, at the discretion of the court. If the offender is a corporation or association, the president, manager, managing partner or any officer of the corporation or partnership who directly participated in the violation of the Act shall be held liable. With the Presidents signing of the law, illegal tapping of any signal offered over cable television (CATV) or cable internet system and the malicious destruction or removal of existing CATV or cable internet facilities will be prohibited. The law also prohibits recording, reproducing, distributing, importing or selling of any intercepted or received CATV system/network signals for commercial purposes without the authority of the concerned CATV or cable internet service provider. "The State recognizes the indispensable role of the private sector, encourages private enterprise, and provides incentives to needed investments. Pursuant thereto, this Act aims to protect the Cable Television and Cable Internet Industries from cable pilferage," the President said. Within sixty (60) days after the effectivity of this Act, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) shall undertake an information dissemination campaign to inform the public of the existence of this Act. "The NTC, in consultation with CATV and Cable Internet Service Providers and other affected parties, shall, within sixty (60) days after the conduct of public hearings which must commence within thirty (30) working days upon the effectivity of this Act, issue the implementing rules and regulations to ensure the efficient and effective implementation of the provisions of the Act," the Chief Executives said. "If, for any reason, any section or provision of this Act is held invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provisions not otherwise affected shall remain valid and subsisting," he said. "All laws, presidential decrees or issuances, executive orders, letters of instruction, administrative orders, rules or regulations contrary to, or inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed, modified or amended accordingly," he said. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its complete publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. The newly-signed Act which is a consolidation of Senate Bill No. 3345 and House Bill No. 709 was finally passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives on January 28, 2013 and January 30, 2013, respectively. PND (js) TOP Palace says local candidates must assist government in stopping of New Peoples Army extortion activities

Malacanang appealed to local candidates to help the government gather information to halt the illegal operations of the New Peoples Army (NPA), particularly its extortion activities. On Monday, President Benigno S. Aquino III instructed the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to dismantle the road blocks being set up by the NPA particularly in areas they control. In a press briefing in Malacanang on Tuesday, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said that while the governments intention is to stop those illegal activities, the AFP has limitations and doesnt have the resources to guard all the hot spots in the country. Given the limitations of the forces that we have hindi natin pwedeng bantayan lahat ng lugar sa lahat ng oras, kaya tayo poy humihingi rin ng kooperasyon ng mga kandidatong lokal, para bigyan naman tayo ng impormasyon na makakatulong doon sa ating mga operations, Valte said. Despite the limitations, Valte noted that the countrys security forces will continue to conduct operations to ensure peace and order in those areas. The Palace official also appealed to candidates campaigning for the May 13 elections to reject the demand of the NPA for them to pay permit-to-campaign fees. We have consistently asked local candidates not to succumb to these demands and to report any of thesefor lack of a better word'requests for payments' to the DILG so the proper response can be made in those particular areas, she said.

Reports said the NPA has been demanding from candidates substantial fees for permission to campaign in the areas where the rebel group operates. The government ordered the deputation of law enforcement agencies as well as the AFP to ensure free, orderly, honest, peaceful and credible conduct of the May 13 automated national and local elections. PND (as) TOP Palace optimistic on adoption of binding Code of Conduct in South China Sea

Malacanang is optimistic the attendance of President Benigno S. Aquino III to the 22nd Summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) would pave the way for the crafting of a Code of Conduct in the West Philippine Sea. "We are optimistic that we will see progress because of the 22nd Summit," Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said when asked how confident the Philippines is in moving the negotiations forward for the particular Code of Conduct. However, Valte said that since the ASEAN has Brunei Darussalam as the new chairman, it is expected that the regional group would have new priorities and agenda in the summit which will be held this week. As you know last year, nagkaroon na ng consensus that its time to talk about this particular subject matter. And we will see what will happen in Brunei, how the talks on the Code [of Conduct] will push forward, she said. The Philippine government said it is the right time for the ASEAN and China to have a legally binding code of conduct to prevent occupation of disputed and non-disputed areas in the West Philippine Sea and Panatag Shoal. The Department of Foreign Affairs said the ASEAN and China have to implement the Declaration on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea because some of the provisions that were laid out in said agreement have not been fully implemented. In 2002, ASEAN and China agreed on the Declaration on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea in Cambodia. The President will join his counterparts in the 22nd ASEAN leaders summit that will be held in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam on April 24 and 25. This years summit theme is Our People, Our Future Together, emphasizing the importance of ASEAN citizens in realizing the vision of an ASEAN community by 2015. PND (as) TOP Malacanang says Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines already provided displacement compensation to 28 fisherfolk families affected by Aurora Pacific Ecozone and Freeport Authority

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has already given displacement compensation to 28 fisherfolk families in response to President Benigno S. Aquino III's directive to address the concerns of the communities affected by the operations of the Aurora Pacific Ecozone and Freeport Authority (APECO), a Palace official said on Tuesday. "Relative to the President's commitment to the fisherfolk families affected by the airport runway expansion, CAAP has given each family P50,000 as displacement compensation," Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a statement. Valte said APECO will provide the 28 families housing units in the National Housing Authority-APECO settlement site in a barangay in Casiguran . "The housing units will be ready by the second half of 2013. The Department of Agriculture (DA) is helping through the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources's seaweeds farming program and have provided equipment to more than 200 fisherfolk as of March 2013," she said. The Aquino administration started taking steps to address the concerns of the farmers, fisherfolks and indigenous peoples (IPs) who claimed that their livelihood was affected by the operations of the APECO. The farmers, fisherfolks and IPs are seeking help from President Aquino regarding the APECOs alleged disastrous impacts on their communities. Pursuant to Republic Act 9490, otherwise known as the Aurora Special Economic Zone Act of 2007, APECO was established aims to convert the 12,923-hectare area into a self-sustaining industrial, commercial, financial, and recreational center. The law was also enacted to create employment opportunities around Casiguran, and effectively encourage and attract legitimate and productive local and foreign investments.

However, the communities in Casiguran voiced out their opposition to APECO because it actually threatened their livelihood. PND (js) TOP

23 ABRIL 2013 Ipinangako ng Pangulong Aquino na matatamo ni Alkalde Guingona ng Gingoog ang katarungan Pagbubukas ng Laguindingan Airport sa Hunyo 15, sabi ni Aquino, inaasahang ibayong magsusulong n g kaunlaran ng rehiyon Pinasalamatan ng mga OFW sa Brunei ang pamahalaang Pilipino sa pagbibigay ng pagkakataong makaboto sila sa Mayo 13 Nilagdaan ng Pangulo ang batas ng Republika 10515 o ang Anti-Cable Television and Cable Internet Tapping Cct ng 2013 Nanawagan sa mga kandidato ang gobyernong Aquino na huwag magbayad ng 'permit-to- campaign' sa CPP-NPA-NDF Dapat tulungan ng mga lokal na kandidato ang pamahalaan para masugpo ang mga pangingikil ng New Peoples Army Ipinangako ng Pangulong Aquino na matatamo ni Alkalde Guingona ng Gingoog ang katarungan

Ipinangako ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III na hindi tatantanan ng mga alagad ng batas ang paghahanap sa mga sandatahang nanambang kay Alkalde Ruthie Guingona ng Lungsod ng Gingoog upang mailapat ang karampatang parusa ginawa nila sa alkalde at mga kasama. Sa talumpati sa pulong ng mga lokal na pinuno at lider na idinaos sa Jose Pelaez Roa Park ng Balingasag, Misamis Oriental, mariing tinuligsa ng Pangulo ang mga nanambang kay Alkalde Guingona sa isang liblib na nayon ng Misamis Oriental Sabado ng gabi kung saan nasugatan ang Alkalde at napatay ang kanyang tsuper at isang bodyguard. Alam po ninyo, masaya ako sa ipinakita ninyong napakainit na pagtanggap pero maski papa -ano po may kaunting kalungkutan dahil nabalitaan po natin ang nangyaring pag-ambus kay Ruth Guingona, ina ni Marie Guingona na tumatakbo bilang mayor ng Gingoog City, wika ng Pangulong Aquino na nag -utos na sa mga alagad ng batas na tugisin ang mga nasa likuran ng nasabing pananambang. Nangangako po ako sa abot ng aking kapangyarihan at kakayahan, at sa ngalan ng batas, mananagot ang dapat managot. Hahabulin at darakpin po natin ang mga taong nasa likuran ng karahasanag ito, mariing wika ng Pangulo. Samantala, tiniyak ng Pangulo na ginagawa nang kasalukuyan ang mahahalagang imprastraktura at mga proyektong lansangan sa lalawigan ng Misamis Oriental kaugnay ng pagsisikap niyang mapaunlad ang turismo at kalakalan sa lalawigan. Sinabi ng Pangulo na inaasahang matutugunan na ng bagong Laguindingan International Airport ang inaasahang pagdagsa ng mga pasahero at kalakal sa lalawigan. Makatutulong din nang malaki ang proyekto sa Cagayan-Iligan Corridor at sa buong Rehiyon ng Hilagang Mindanao. Nakatakdang magsimula ang operasyon ng bagong paliparan sa taong ito. Ang paliparan ay nasa 4.17 kilometrong parisukat sa Baranggay Moog, Laguindingan at 46 kilometro ang layo sa kasalukuyang Lumbia Airport. Ito ang magiging pang-apat na pandaigdig na paliparan sa Mindanao. Ang iba pang paliparan ay ang General Santos International Airport sa Lungsod ng Heneral Santos, Francisco Bangoy International Airport sa Lungsod ng Davao at ang Zamboanga International Airport, gayundin ang kauna-unahang pandaigdig na paliparan sa Hilagang Mindanao o Rehiyon X. Binigyang diin ng Pangulo na patuloy ang administrasyon niya sa pagkakaloob ng pondo ng gobyerno sa mga proyektong lalong lilinang sa pagsasaka sa lalawigan at sa buong bansa.

Sa taong ito, pangako sa atin ni Kalihim Proceso Alcala ng Pagsasaka n a baka hindi lamang tayo magkaroon nang sapat, kundi makapagluluwas pa tayo, wika ng Pangulo. Binanggit din ng Pangulo na ang reporma sa edukasyon ay nangunguna sa programa ng pamahalaan para tunay na maayos ang sistema ng edukasyon sa bansa. Noong mag-umpisa ako, sabi sa akin, kulang ng 66,800 silid-aralan ang Pilipinas. Ang kaya po ng budget natin tauntaon ay 8,000 silid-aralan ang maipagagawa. Anim na taon ang ibinigay ninyo sa akin, e di 48,000 ang kulang na silidaralan. May utang pa ako pagbaba ko sa 2016. Pero, ang magandang balita po, ayon sa DepEd, tapos na ang backlog natin bago matapos ang 2013. Wala na pong kulang na mga silid-aralan, masayang pagbabalita ng Pangulo. PND (js/zaf) TOP Pagbubukas ng Laguindingan Airport sa Hunyo 15, sabi ni Aquino, inaasahang ibayong magsusulong ng kaunlaran ng rehiyon BALINGASAG, Misamis OryentalAng psgbubukas ng Laguindingan Airport sa Hunyo 15 ng kasalukuyang taon, sabi ng Pangulong Nenigno S. Aquino III ay lalong magpapasigla ng turismo at kalakalan sa Hilagang Mindanaw at mga kanugnog-pook sapagkat ang bagong paliparan ang magsisilbing bagong pintuang magbubukas ng Mindanaw sa daigdig. Ang magagandang nsngyayari nga po sa bayang ito ng Balingasag ay sumasalamin sa progresibong tagumpay ng inyong lalawigan. Nariyan ang bagong world-class airport sa Laquindingan na bubuksan sa Hunyo na sa Hunyo 15 ng taong ito, sabi ng Pangulo sa paki- kipagpulong niya sa mga lokal na pinunong bayan at mamamayan dito Lunes. Inaasahan nating talaga namang malaki ag maitutulong sa ating ekonomya dito po sa inyong lalawigan at sa buong Kalakhang Mindanaw, sabi ng Pangulo. Sinabi ng Pangulo na bukod sa Laguindingan Airport, pinondohan ng admiistrasyon niya ang 27 proyektong patubig ng mahigit na P225 milyon, gayundin ang 18 farm-to-market roads sa Misamis Oryental. Inaasahang makikinabang sa proyektong ito ang mga magsasaka ng mg bayan ng Apol, Man-ticao, Sugbongcogon, Naawan, Alubihid, Hasaan, El Salvador, Gikngoog at Lungsod ng Cagayan de Oro. Bagaman nakatuon ang pamahalaan sa malalaking imprastraktura sa Misamis Oryental, hindi naman nakakaligtaan ang pagtulong sa mga nakaligtas sa bagyong Sendong upang sila ay makapagbagong buhay. May halos 4,500 bahay na tayong naipatayo sa 8,600 housing units na ating target para sa Cagayan de Oro resettlement sites, ang natitira po, balita ko ay kasalukuyang ginagawa at malapit na pong matapos ang marami, dagdsg ng Pangulo. Mahigit na 1,000 pamilyang naninirahan sa Isla de Oro na isang mapanganib na pook ang nailipst na ng pamahalaan at napagkalooban na ng mga bagay ukol sa ikabubuhay nila, sabi pa ng Pangulo. Bukod sa pakay ng pamahalaan na maiklikpat sa ligtas na pook ang mga apektadong pamilya, naglaan din ang pamahalaan ng P12 milyon para sa Self-Employment Assistance Kaunlaran, gayundin ng P22 milyong ukol sa cashfor-work program. At hindi po tayo titigil sa pagbubuhos ng mgs proyekto at programa dito sa Misamis Oryental dahi l hangad nating ilapit ang ating mga Bossng taong bayansa katuparan ng kani-kanilang mga pangarap, wika pa ng Pangulo. Nanawagan ang Pangulo sa mga mamamayan ng Misamis Oryental na tulungan ang mga lider ng kanllang lalawigan ns makibalikat sa administrasyon para matiyak na patuloy st walang sagabal na magqgawa ang mga proyekto ng pamahalaan sa kanilang pook. PND(as/zaf) TOP Pinasalamatan ng mga OFW sa Brunei ang pamahalaang Pilipino sa pagbibigay ng pagkakataong makaboto sila sa Mayo 13 BRUNEI DARUSSALAM) Pinasalamatan ng Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) dito ang pamahalaang Pilipino sa pagbibigay ng pagkakataong gamitin ang karapatan nilang bumoto sa halalan sa Mayo 13 sa pamamagitan ng Overseas Absentee Voting Act. Ang Batas ng Republika Blg. 9189 o Overseas Absentee Voting Act ay napagtibay noong Pebrero 23, 2003 upang bigyang pagkakataon ang mga mamamayan ng Pilipinas na kasalukuyang nagtatrabaho o naninirahan sa labas ng Pilipinas na makaboto sa halalan. Ang batas na ito ay pinagsanib na Senate Bill 2104 at House Bill 3570 na siyang ipinatutupad ngayon ng Komisyon sa Halalan (COMELEC) sa tulong ng Kagawaran ng Ugnayang Panlabas sa iba-ibang bansa sa daigdig kung saan may mga Pilipino. Sina Mike at Irene Toledo, mga Pilipinong matagal nang naninirahan dito ay nagpahayag ng katuwaan sa pagkakataong ibinigay sa kanila para pumili ng mga susunod na mga mambabatas at idinugtong na isa itong karangalan at karapatang tunay na pambihira.

Sinabi ng dalawa na umaasa silang ang mga ibinoto nila ay patuloy na mangangalaga sa kalig-tasan at mga karapatan ng OFWs wsa buong daigdig. Isang malaking karangalan na kaming mga Pilipino na nasa ibayong dagat ay mabigyan ng ka rapatang bumoto o maghalal ng mga kababayan naming karapat-dapat na uupo sa ating pamahalaan, wika ni Gng.Toledo. Sana po, ang aming mga ibinoto ay siyang manalo dahil palagay namin po ay sila ang karapat -dapat na umupo, na gumawa ng mga tungkulin para manilbihan sa mga Pilipino, lalung-lalo na sa mga overseas workers, dagdag ni Gng. Toledo. Alinsunod sa DFA, ang pagboto ng mga OFWs ay nagsimula noong Abril 13, 2013 buhat sa ika-8:00 ng umaga hanggang ika-5:00 ng hapon mula Lunes hanggang Linggo, kahit araw ng pista opisyal. Isang oras ang lunch break sa pagitan ng Linggo at Huwebes at dalawang araw namang noon break kung Biyernes at hanggang ika-6:00 ng hapon na man ang botohan. Nananawagan ang Embahada sa mga botanteng Pilipino sa ibang bansa na maaga silang bumoto para maiwasan ang ano mang problema. Samantala, sinabi naman ng Komisyon sa Halalan na inaasahan nilang aabot sa 60 porsiyento ng mga OFWs ang boboto sa taong ito sa hanay ng may 737,759 OAVs sa Asya, Gitnang Silangan, Estados Unidos, Europa at mga magdaragat. Ang iboboto nila ay 12 senador at isang party-list. PND (rck/zaf) TOP Nilagdaan ng Pangulo ang batas ng Republika 10515 o ang Anti-Cable Television and Cable Internet Tapping Cct ng 2013 Nilagdaan ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III ang Batas ng Republika Blg. 10515 o ang Anti-Cable Television and Cable Internet Tapping Act ng 2013 na naglalayong pangalagaan ang industriya ng cable television and cable internet laban sa cable pilferage (pagnanakaw). Inihayag ni Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte sa pulong-balitaan sa Malacanang Martes na noon pang Abril 17, 2013 ito nilagdaan ng Pangulong Aquino. Ipinagbabawal ng batas ang cable television and internet tapping at parurusahan ng pagkabilanggo ng dalawa hanggang limang taon o multang P50,000 hanggang P100,000 o ang dalawang parusang ito alinsunod sa kapasiyahan ng hukuman. Kung ang nagkasala ay korporasyon o samahan, ang pangulo, tagapamahala, managing partner o sino mang pinuno ng korporasyon o partnership na tuwirang kasama sa paglabag sa Batas ang siyang pananagutin. Ngayong malagdaan ng Pangulo ang Batas na ito, ang illegal tapping ng ano mang signal ng cable television (CATV) o cable internet system at pagsira o pagtatanggal ng nakakabit na CATV o cable internet facilities ay ipagbabawal. Ipinagbabawal din ng nasabing batas ang rekording, pagkopya, pamamahagi, pag-angkat o pagbibili ng ano mang nasabat o natanggap na CATV system/network signals para sa hangaring komersiyal nang walang kapangyarihan ng kinauukulang CATV o cable internet service provider. Kinikilala ng Pamahalaan ang mahalagang ginagampanan ng pribadong sektor, paghikayat sa private enterprise at pagbibigay ng insentibo sa mga kailangang pamumuhunan. Pag-alinsunod dito, layunin ng Batas na pangalagaan ang industriya ng Cable Television and Cable Internet sa mga magnanakaw, sabi ng Pangulo. Sa loob ng animnapung araw (60) matapos magkabisa ang Batas na ito, isasagawa ng National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) ang malawakang kampanya upang malaman ng madla na mayroon nang ganitong Batas. Magsasagawa ng mga hayagang pagdinig ang NTC, sa pakikipag-ugnayan ng CATV Cable Internet Service sa loob ng 60 araw at pagkatapos ay sisimulan 30 araw makaraang umiral ang Batas na ito, ang paglalabas ng mga ipatutupad na tuntunin at regulasyon para matiyak na mabisa at mahusay na maipatutupad ang Batas, dugtong ng Pangulo. Niliwanag din ng Pangulo na sakaling maideklarang walang bisa o labag sa kostitusyon ang alinmang bahagi ng Batas na ito, ang mga tadhanaing hindi bahagi ng pinawalang bisa ay mananatiling umiiral at ipatutupad. Lahat ng mga batas, kautusan ng pangulo o mga kautusang tagapagpaganap, letters of instructi on o kautusang pampangasiwaan, tuntunin o regulasyong salungat o taliwas sa mga tadhanain ng Batas na ito ay itinuturing na napawalang bisa na, o nasusugan, ayon pa sa Pangulo. Magkakabisa ang Batas na ito labinlimang (15) araw matapos na malathala ito sa dalawa (2) man lamang na pahayagang malawak ang sirkulasyon. PND (js/zaf) TOP Nanawagan sa mga kandidato ang gobyernong Aquino na huwag magbayad ng 'permit-to- campaign' sa CPPNPA-NDF Nanawagan ang administrasyong Aquino sa lahat ng kandidatong kumakampanya para sa halalan sa Mayo 13 na tanggihan ang hinihingi umano ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas-New Peoples Army- National Democratic Front

(CPP- NPA-NDF) na pagbabayad ng permit-to-campaign. Ipinahayag ito ng Tagapagsalita ng Pangulo Edwin Lacierda sa pulong-balitaan sa Malacanang Lunes sa liwanag ng mga ulat na hinihingan ng CPP-NPA-NDF ng malaking halaga ang mga kandidato para makakampanya sa mga pook na naglalagi ang mga rebelde. Uulitin namin na may tagubilin na sa Pambansang Pulisya na pag-ibayuhin ang pagbabantay para mamayani ang katahimikan. Sa mga kandidato, ang pakiusap nating huwag silang magbayad sa CPP-NPA-NDF. Hindi ito pinapayagan ng ating pamahalaan, sabi pa ni Lacierda. Iniutos ng administrasyong Aquino ang deputisasyon ng mga alagad ng batas at istrumentalidad ng pamahalaan, kabilang ang Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas, upang matiyak ang malaya, maayos, malinis, mapayapa at kapanipaniwalang halalan, ayon kay Lacierda. Alam na alam ng AFP na dapat silang gumawa ng mga hakbang para matiyak na hindi susunod ang mga pulitiko sa mga naniningil para makakampanya ang sino man. Ipatitiyak din natin sa AFP na hindi makapaglalagay ng checkpoints ang mga NPA saanman. Hindi ito pinapayagan ng ating pamahalaan, sabi pa ni Lacierda. Mariing hinagkis ng Malacanang Linggo ang pananambang kay Alkalde Ruthie Guingona ng Lungsod ng Gingoog sa isang barangay sa Misamis Oriental Sabado ng ika-11:00 ng gabi. Napatay ang tsuper at isang bodyguard ni Alkalde Guingona. Ang Alkalde ay maybahay ng dating bise presidente Teofisto Guingona at ina ni Senador Teofisto Guingona III. Kasalukuyan nang pinaghahanap ng mga tauhan ng 58th Infantry Battalion ng Hukbong Katihan ang grupong nanambang kay Alkalde Guingona na nakaratay ngayon sa isang ospital dahil sa tinamong tama ng punglo. PND TOP Dapat tulungan ng mga lokal na kandidato ang pamahalaan para masugpo ang mga pangingikil ng New Peoples Army Nanawagan ang Malacanang sa mga lokal na kandidato na tulungan ang pamahalaan na makatipon ng impormasyon upang masugpo ang ilegal na gawain ng New Peoples Army (NPA), lalo na ang pa ngingikil o panghihingi ng pera ng mga ito sa mga kandidatong nangagampanya. Lunes inatasan ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III ang Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas na tanggalin ang mga harang sa lansangan na inilalagay ng NPA, lalo na sa mga ilang na pook. Sa pulong-balitaan sa Malacanang Martes, sinabi ni Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte na nais ng pamahalaan na matigil ang mga gawaing ilegal ng NPA at hindi maiwasan kung minsan, lalo na sa mga malayo at ilang na mga pook ng bansa na makasalisi ang mga NPA sa paglalagay ng harang sa kalye. Ibigin man ng mga kawal natin, hindi naman puwedeng mabantayan ang lahat ng lugar sa lahat ng oras, kaya tayo po ay humihingi ng tulong ng mga kandidatong lokal para bigyan naman tayo ng impormasyon na makatutulong para masawata ang mga pangingikil na ito, dagdag pa ni Valte. Binigyang diin ni Valte na ipagpapatuloy ng ating mga alagad ng batas at mga kawal na pangalagaan ang kapayapaan at kaayusang pambayan sa lahat ng sulok ng bansa. Sinabi rin ni Valte na tanggihan ng lahat ng mga kandidatong nangangampanya para sa halalan sa Mayo 13 na tanggihan ang atas sa kanila ng NPA na magbayad ng pahintulot na kumampanya. Lagi naming hinihiling sa mga lokal na kandidato na huwag pumayag sa mga paniningil sa kanila para kumampanya at ipaalam agad sa DILG para magawa agad ang karampatang hakbang sa mga nasabing pook, dugtong pa ni Valte. Salig sa mga ulat, nanghihingi ang NPA sa mga kandidato ng malaking halaga para payagan silang makakampanya sa mga pook na may mga nagkukublihang mga rebelde. Inatasan na ng pamahalaan ang mga alagad ng batas, gayundin ang AFP na tiyaking ang idaraos na halalan ay magiging malaya, maayos, matapat, mapayapa at kapani-paniwala. PND TOP

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23 APRIL 2013 1. Govt and MILF strengthen ceasefire mechanism for 2013 elections 2. DA grants P80M agri-fishery support to Polillo farmers, fishers 3. Supreme Court enjoins the implementation of CA's decision and resolution in the Sagun/Globe Asiatique case 4. RWO IV-A's EDSP scholar graduates as Cum laude 5. BIR issuances plug tax leaks in gold, stock transfers 6. Poverty incidence unchanged, as of first semester 2012NSCB 7. DPWH to start construction of tourism road in Zambo del Norte 8. DTI to hold Aklan ICON 9. Statement of Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan 10. PHL Ambassador bids farewell, donates painting to United Nations Environment Programme 11. Three stranded Filipino seafarers repatriated from Nairobi 12. DBP first quarter Net Income grows 90% 13. Environmental Ombudsman launches Solid Waste Management Compliance Program 14. PDIC to continue processing claims of La Consolacion Rural Bank (Laguna) depositors 15. SMEs must be ready for ASEAN economic integration by 2015 16. PSIP II pre-qualified bidders to construct 8 scale models of PPP school buildings Govt and MILF strengthen ceasefire mechanism for 2013 elections Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph Davao City, April 23 Government of the Philippines (GPH) peace panel chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer lauded on Monday the ceasefire mechanism of the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) during the signing of the Guidelines for Mutual Understanding for Ceasefire-Related Functions during the May 13, 2013 National and Local Elections.The MOU aims to strengthen both parties cooperation and further define their roles on the peaceful elections next month in order to safeguard the ceasefire and the peace process. Here we see in motion our Ceasefire Committees doing its share in making our elect oral institutions stronger so that these are able to deliver to us the blessings of democratic elections and at the same time ensuring that our own process is not disrupted, noted Coronel-Ferrer in her message at the event held in Davao City's Waterfront Insular Hotel. On behalf of the entire GPH peace panel, Coronel-Ferrer congratulated members of the Joint Coordinating Committees on the Cessation of Hostilities (JCCCH) for their valuable initiative to protect the integrity of the GPH-MILF Ceasefire Agreement and the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro while the government ensures the conduct of honest, orderly and peaceful elections on May 13. Coronel-Ferrer underscored the significance of signing the MOU because it serves to honor and actively protect the valued processes and commitments between the GPH and the MILF as peace partners as well as safeguard the peoples freedom to choose their leaders during elections. Also present in the conference is MILF peace panel chair Mohagher Iqbal. Iqbal also lauded the initiative of the ceasefire committees saying that this does not undermine the "hands-off" policy of the MILF during elections. He added that elections should reflect the mandate of the people. According to the MOU signed by the Parties today, the government and the MILF will abide by the gun ban with reference to the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Resolution No. 9561; the GPH-MILF Agreement on General Cessation of Hostilities in July 1997; and the FAB, amongst others. In this manner, in our own way, in the areas where our constituencies co-exist, through the joint security cooperation between our forces, we are able to strengthen the integrity of Philippine elections, Coronel -Ferrer added. The implementation of the MOU guidelines is effective from April 22 to May 20, 2013 as agreed by the JCCCH, with the concurrence of the International Monitoring Team Mission 8 (IMT 8). Signatories to the document are BGgen Cesar Dionisio Sedillo Jr, Chairman of GPH-CCCH and Said Sheik, Chairman of MILF CCCH with IMT 8 head MGen Dato Fadzil Bin Mokhtar as witness. The Parties clarified that this partnership to strengthen ceasefire in the elections is in line with the functions of the joint CCCH in the peace process and not to be interpreted as MILFs inconsistency to its standing policy not to take part or meddle in whatever capacity on the government electoral process. Among the most crucial parts of the guidelines are the following: (1) the Parties shall ensure coordination of the unhindered movements and deployment of election personnel and equipment and personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police, as deputized by COMELEC in polling centers within

the MILF dominated areas; (2) the Parties agreed to establish Joint Ceasefire Monitoring Post as quick response team for this endeavor in various areas; and (3) the MILF shall refrain from consolidating its forces from the time PCOS machines are deployed and until election has been completed. |TOP| DA grants P80M agri-fishery support to Polillo farmers, fishers Source: http://www.da.gov.ph The Department of Agriculture is allotting an initial P80 million (M) for various agricultural and fishery projects to further increase the productivity and incomes of small farmers and fisherfolk in five towns comprising the Polillo group of islands, in Quezon. Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala said such assistance is also aimed at making Polillo sufficient in rice, other staples, fish, vegetables and other crops. He led the distribution of various farm inputs, equipment, and projects to more than 1,000 farmers, fisherfolk and local government officials during a two-day visit, highlighted by an Agriculture and Fisheries Development Summit, at Polillo town hall, on April 15, 2013. He said the DA through its Region 4-A (Calabarzon) office and other concerned DA agencies are assisting the local governments of the five towns (Polillo, Jomalig, Patnanungan, Burdeos, and Panukulan) craft a mediumterm agriculture and fisheries development plan or roadmap to make Polilians sufficient in rice and major staples. "We need to expand the area planted to rice in each of the barangays in Polillo group of islands in line with the Aquino government's goal to achieve sufficiency in rice by end of 2013," said the DA chief. He asked Polillian farmers to coordinate with the DAs Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM), led by Dir. Vince Tejada, to locate springs to be tapped as sources of irrigation, and establishment of small water impounding projects (SWIPs). The bulk of the interventions consisted of P54.7-M worth of crop and accident insurance coverage from the DAs Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC), for farmers, fisherfolk and their families in the five towns of Polillo (P13.5-M worth of insurance), Jomalig (P15M), Patnanungan (P9.6M), Burdeos (P8.35M), and Panukulan (P8.25M). The DA through Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) also provided P14-M worth of assistance in the form of thousands of coconut seedlings and livelihood projects under the DA-PCA KAANIB program. Further, he instructed PCA Administrator Euclides Forbes to set up a coconut processing facility in Polillo that will produce virgin coconut oil, coco sugar, water, and coir, among other coconut by-products. For its part, the DAs Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) provided P5 -million worth of fish nets, fishing gears and paraphernalia. Two barangay food terminals worth P2M will be established by the DAs Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (AMAS), while P1.5-M worth of farm equipment (hand tractors, water engine pumps, and coffee dryer), native pig and chicken, and a training module was allotted under the DAs organic agriculture program. The DA High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) provided P1.7-M worth of farm equipment and various fruit seedlings (rambutan, lanzones, citrus, coffee and cacao), rootcrops (ubi), and assorted vegetable seeds. The equipment included knapsack sprayers, cacao dehuller, pH meters, and repair of Bio-N fertilizer facility. The DA rice and corn programs gave P1.4-M worth of certified rice seeds (200 50-kilo bags worth P240,000), 150 bags of yellow and white corn seeds (P360,000), and dozens of farm equipment that included hand tractors, rice cutters, knapsack sprayers, collapsible dryers, and laminated tarps or trapal. Polillian rural women and youth, who are members of Rural Improvement Clubs (RICs) and 4-H Clubs, also received P170,000-worth of livelihood projects from the DAs Agricultural Training Institute. During the forum, Secretary Alcala promptly addressed the concerns and issues raised by farmers and fisherfolk. He was assisted by head of DA agencies present that included Assistant Secretary and national corn program coordinator Edilberto de Luna, PCA Administrator Euclides Forbes, PCIC President Jovy Bernabe, BSWM Director Silvino Tejada, BFAR Director Asis Perez, and DA Region 4-A Director Vilma Dimaculangan. Secretary Alcala also raffled off to participants several head of farm animals (cattle, carabaos with implements piglets, sheep, and cattle), and hand tractors to each of the five municipalities in Polillo. (Marlo Asis, DA Information Service) |TOP| Supreme Court enjoins the implementation of CA's decision and resolution in the Sagun/Globe Asiatique case Source: http://www.doj.gov.ph On 17 April 2013, the First Division of the Supreme Court enjoined the implementation of the Decision and Resolution of the Special Tenth Division of the Court of Appeals on the Petition filed by Christina Sagun (Sagun). It may be recalled that Sagun was one of the respondents indicted for the crime of syndicated estafa constituting economic sabotage, penalized under Article 315(2) (a) of the Revised Penal Code, in relation to Presidential Decree No. 1689. Allegedly, Sagun and her co-accused conspired with one another in employing a scheme, involving soliciting and paying off "special buyers" and/or creating "ghost borrowers", to the damage and prejudice of the Home Development Fund, in the amount of approximately Php 6.65 billion.

Sagun assailed the Review Resolution issued by the DOJ Task Force on Business Scam directly before the Court of Appeals (CA). On 5 October 2012, the CA granted the Petition for Certiorari and Prohibition, nullifying and setting aside the Resolution which found probable cause to implicate Sagun in the Globe Asiatique case. The CA, in its 11 February 2013 Resolution, also denied the DOJ's Motion for Reconsideration. In the same Resolution, the CA quashed the Information filed before the RTC and recalled the arrest warrant issued against Sagun. Alleging grave abuse of discretion, the DOJ, represented by Secretary Leila M. De Lima, Prosecutor General Claro A. Arellano, and Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Theodore M. Villanueva, and the National Bureau of Investigation, acting through the Office of the Solicitor General, elevated to the Supreme Court the Decision and Resolution of the CA via Petition for Review on Certiorari (With Very Urgent Prayer for the Issuance of a Temporary Restraining Order and/or Writ of Preliminary Injunction). "With the issuance of the Temporary Restraining Order, there exists no legal impediment for Branch 42 of Regional Trial Court of San Fernando, Pampanga, to proceed with the trial of the case for syndicated estafa filed against Delfin S. Lee, Dexter Lee, Christina Sagun, Cristi.na Salagan, and Atty. Alex Alvarez. Also, the manhunt for Delfin Lee and his co-accused, who remain at-large, must continue" said Secretary De Lima. |TOP| RWO IV-A's EDSP scholar graduates as Cum laude Source: http://www.owwa.gov.ph It has been a fruitful year for OFW Engr. Cenon and Helen Polo as their eldest son, Arvin Bryan finishes his Electrical Engineering degree as Cum Laude at the University of the Philippines-Los Baos. Arvin as his family calls him, has always been a constant source of pride to his family specially to his father who works as an engineer in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia . Even as a young student, academic excellence was already evident as proven by the different academic accolades he received during his primary education at the Montessori School of Pulilan . It didn't come as a surprise that he graduated as the class valedictorian. Although he remained diligent in his studies, Arvin learned to develop his inter personal skills by joining extracurricular activities. Aside from the different academic groups, he was a member of the Marcelo H. Del Pilar National High School's Athletic Club in which gave him the opportunities to compete among the different schools in the region. It was through sports that he learned that excellence encompasses all areas and not only limited within the confines of his classroom. He later graduated with honors. Albeit the family can very well afford to send Arvin to a good school however, the reality of sending Arvin and his two other siblings to school all at the same time can still drain their finances. For the couple, the year 2007 was the year of the Lord's favor as Arvin passed both the UPLB entrance examination as well as OWWA's qualifying exam for Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP). The academic discipline that was honed in his early life has helped him survive the demands of being in the premier state university as well as being an OWWA scholar. It was this experience that made him appreciate the sacrifices made by his parents. "I'm only in Los Baos and I miss them so much, can't imagine how difficult it was for my father", he said. The strong emotional support from his family saw him through the different challenges through out his stay at the university. Furthermore, the need for key relationships made him step out of his comfort zone and expand his social networks. He joined the UPLB SELES, an exclusive organization for electrical engineering students. It was through this organization that he was able to truly embrace his Alma Matter's motto - Honor and Excellence. He later became the Academic Committee Head for the SY 2012-2013. Being part of the EDSP roster of scholars gave him opportunities to develop his self esteem, enhance his leadership and interpersonal skills as well his social awareness by taking part of the Learning Support Program for all OWWA scholars. This is aside from the Php 60,000 scholarship grant per year. To finish a degree in UP and on time, more so, as a cum laude is very difficult beyond words. But it is not impossible, he said. "This recognition is for my family who have sacrificed so much for me." Engr. Cenon has arrived to witness his son's graduation on April 27. Arvin graduated with a GWA of 1.75. |TOP| BIR issuances plug tax leaks in gold, stock transfers Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph The Bureau of Internal Revenue issued two revenue regulations recently to improve collection of taxes from transfers that usually go unregulated. One, RR no. 5-2013, prescribes the advance payment of probable taxes due on sales of jewelry, gold, and other precious metals, particularly to non-resident foreign individuals or corporations. RR No. 6-2013, on the other hand, amends certain portions of previously issued RR No. 06-2008 to clarify rules on the sale of shares of stock of domestic corporations not traded in the local stock exchange. Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima hailed the orders as further formalizing the economy and increasing the transparency of the business environment, in addition to curbing tax evasion. These Revenue Regulations are important because they allow the BIR to account for a wider scope of

economic activity in the country. With these issuances, the government is more empowered to collect the taxes due from transactions that used to be hard to spot, Purisima said. Tax on Jewelry, Gold, Precious Metals to be Paid in Advance In April 2012, the BIR issued RR No. 6-2012, which imposed excise tax, value added tax, and income tax on the sale of gold and other metallic minerals to other persons or entities, including the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). However, the BIR observed that in order to avoid taxation, many parties choose to sell their gold to non-BSP buyers that do not impose the taxes, tantamount to tax evasion. Many sales take place in gatherings and expositions hosted at hotels and other centers, and are advertised in newspapers of general circulation. Under RR No. 5-2013, sellers of such jewelry, gold, and other metallic minerals are required to pay the appropriate taxes in advance through assigned Revenue Collection Officers (RCO) of the BIR Revenue District Office (RDO) having jurisdiction over the place where the transaction occurs. Once the tax has been paid, the transaction will be validated by the issuance of a corresponding Revenue Official Receipt (ROR). The advance tax payments shall be credited against the actual business tax and income tax due from sellers for the taxable period for which such advance payments were remitted to the BIR. In addition to the regulations on advance tax payments, owners and operators of venues where organized meetings for sale of gold take place are required to advise their corresponding RDOs immediately after having acquired knowledge of the buying event. They are to provide the RDOs relevant identification information on alien individuals or foreign corporation buyers including the entities names, nationalities, passport numbers, as well as their intended length of stay at the hotels/venues. The directives in RR No. 5-2013 are to be enforced by the BIRs Special Investigation Division personnel as well as BIR RCOs. Rules for Sale of Non-Publicly Traded Stock Amended RR No. 6-2013, on the other hand, amends rules for the sale, barter, exchange, or other disposition of shares of stock of domestic corporations not traded in the local stock exchange. The RR provides that non-publicly traded shares shall be assessed at its fair market value for capital gains tax purposes, using the Adjusted Net Asset method specified by the BIR. |TOP| Poverty incidence unchanged, as of first semester 2012NSCB Source: http://www.nscb.gov.ph The National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) releases its latest report today on the state of poverty in the country. The report using data from the Family Income and Expenditure Survey (FIES) conducted by the National Statistics Office (NSO) last July 2012 measured poverty incidence or the proportion of people below the poverty line to the total population. In a press briefing, NSCB Secretary General Jose Ramon G. Albert reports that poverty incidence among population was estimated at 27.9 percent during the first semester of 2012. Comparing this with the 2006 and 2009 first semester figures estimated at 28.8 percent and 28.6 percent, respectively, poverty remained unchanged as the computed differences are not statistically significant. Food and poverty thresholds The report points out that during the first semester of 2012, a Filipino family of five needed PhP 5,458 to meet basic food needs every month and Php 7,821 to stay above the poverty threshold (basic food and non-food needs) every month. These respective amounts represent the food and poverty thresholds, which increased by 11.1 percent from the first semester of 2009 to the first half of 2012, compared to the 26.0 percent-increase between the 1st semesters of 2006 and 2009. The food threshold is the minimum income required by an individual to meet his/her basic food needs and satisfy the nutritional requirements set by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI), while remaining economically and socially productive. Put another way, the food threshold helps measure food poverty or subsistence, which may also be described as extreme poverty. Poverty threshold is a similar concept, but incorporates basic non-food needs, such as clothing, housing, transportation, health, and education expenses, among others. Poverty among Filipino families The NSCB also releases statistics on poverty among familiesa crucial social indicator that guides policy makers in their efforts to alleviate poverty. According to the report, the subsistence incidence, which represents the proportion of Filipino families in extreme poverty, was estimated at 10.0 percent during the first semester of 2012. At 10.0 percent in the first semester of 2009 and 10.8 percent in the first half of 2006, the differences among these three figures remain statistically insignificant. In terms of poverty incidence among families, the NSCB estimates a rate of 22.3 percent during the first semester of 2012, and 23.4 percent and 22.9 percent during the same periods in 2006 and 2009, respectively. Estimated cost of eradicating poverty

The NSCB also releases other poverty-related statistics, such as the income gap. This measures the amount of income required by the poor in order to get out of poverty, in relation to the poverty threshold itself. This may be used as a hypothetical benchmark for the amount needed to eradicate poverty as a whole, assuming expenses are focused solely on assistance rather than on targeting costs (such as operations and implementation). In other words, using figures for the income gap and the poverty threshold, the NSCB estimates the total cost of poverty eradication (exclusive of targeting costs) is Php 79.7 billion for the first semester of 2012. It should be noted that the budget of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for the CCT was Php 39.4 billion for the entirety of 2012. More frequent release of poverty statistics The release of the latest official poverty statistics is a remarkable milestone for the country. In previous years, official poverty statistics were only released every three years, and usually with a one-year time lag from the year when the FIES data was first collected. However, starting this year, poverty statistics will be available in two series for every year in which the FIES is conductedonce, for the first semester and secondly, for the entire year. In August 2012, Director General Arsenio Balisacan of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) suggested to the NSCB and the NSO to examine FIES data for the first semester of 2012 and release it as quickly as possible. This is consistent with earlier efforts and discussions of the TC PovStat and the NSCB to respond to the growing need for more frequent and timely poverty statistics. Albert says that the NSCBalong with partner institutions such as the NSO, the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS) and the members of the TC PovStat ramped up the estimation and publication schedule to make this possible, while ensuring data quality and accuracy. He hopes that, through this initiative , the Philippine Statistical System, particularly the NSCB, will be able to deliver a clearer, more relevant and more up-to-date snapshot of poverty in the Philippines to help policymakers and stakeholders alike (from both the public and private sectors) craft informed programs and policies based on timely and accurate statistics. |TOP| DPWH to start construction of tourism road in Zambo del Norte Source: http://www.dpwh.gov.ph To further enhance opportunities to attract more tourists in Zamboanga Peninsula, the Department of Public Works and Highways is set to start the implementation of the improvement and upgrading of a national road from Junction Barangay Cogon to OISCA Park (Japanese Park) in Barangay Cogon, Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte. Costing P335 Million, the 14-km national road traverses the scenic rolling to a mountainous terrain of Zamboanga del Norte. The project involves the concrete paving of a 14-kilometer gravel road with pavement width of 6.10 meters and thickness of 0.23 meters. According to DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson, the concreting of this road is part of the agencys target to make all national roads paved 100% by year 2016. The project is one of our tourism convergence projects because it will facilitate travel to the Sungkilaw falls located within the Japanese Park in Dipolog City, said Singson. The DPWH, through its tourism convergence program with the Department of Tourism, seeks to upgrade and improve access roads to identified tourism destinations thus boosting the tourism industry in the country. When we open these local tourism sites through the provision of access roads, we are correspondingly opening job opportunities to the local people residing within the vicinity. Thus, this administration is bent in investing prudently in much needed tourism-related infrastructure projects, said Singson. The groundbreaking of the road project was recen tly officiated by President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III together with DPWH Undersecretary Romeo S. Momo and DPWH Region IX Director Jorge U. Sebastian,Jr. |TOP| DTI to hold Aklan ICON Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will hold the Aklan Investment Conference on April 30, 2013 or Aklan ICON 2013 to promote promising industries as investment opportunities for existing and budding investors and to spur economic growth in Aklan. The Aklan ICON will coincide with the launch of a Shared Service Facility (SSF) Program to be led by DTI Secretary Gregory L. Domingo, together with national and local government officials. Through its SSF Program, the DTI will award handlooms to a cooperative to help weavers in Aklan. The SSF is a public-private partnership (PPP) initiative, which will be implemented through private sector partner who can provide sustainable facilities to house the machinery and equipment, DTI -Aklan Provincial Director Diosdado P. Cadena, Jr. said. The DTI identified the Handicraft of Aklan Multi-Purpose Cooperative (HAMPCO), a cooperative based in Kalibo, Aklan, as cooperator or partner for this SSF project. The SSF is DTIs flagship program this year. These SSFs are common service facilities for certain production processes. These facilities are intended to provide micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) access to equipment and technology for them to be competitive in the domestic and international markets. Currently, the HAMPCO has a total membership of 385 with 141 workers that include weavers, knotters, warpers, sewers, embroiderers, and painters. It was established on December 27, 1989.

The major products of HAMPCO are abaca silk, abaca pia, abaca basket weave, pia cloth, abaca cloth, pia seda shawl, and pia seda barong. These products are sold locally in Boracay, Manila, Cebu, Pampanga, and Palawan, and exported in Japan, France and Italy. As the projects cooperator, the HAMPCO identified 50 recipients of handloom units. Thes e looms will be housed in five loom weaving centers in the province located in three municipalities of Aklan. The distribution of project beneficiaries in these municipalities are as follows: Kalibo (5 beneficiaries in Barangay New Buswang; 8 in Barangay Old Buswang); Lezo (6 in Poblacion; and 11 in Barangay Ibao); and Makato (20 in Barangay Tina). |TOP| Statement of Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan Source: http://www.neda.gov.ph Members of the media, ladies and gentlemen, good morning. As reported by the NSCB, the poverty incidence during the first semester of 2012 was slightly lower than it was in the first semester of 2009, that is, from 28.6 percent to 27.9 percent. This is the first time that we are coming out with semestral statistics on poverty, and this effort is in line with our objective to come up with timely and reliable data that will effectively guide policy and program design on poverty reduction. Initially, we had wanted these statistics to be released in January, but there were understandably some conceptual issues that first had to be settled before the results could be released. And for this, I would like to express our appreciation to the Technical Committee on Poverty Statistics, the NSCB Technical Secretariat and the NSO who provided the relevant background work to thresh out these said issues. Poverty incidence declined between the first semester of 2009 and 2012, and, although only slightly, this result was not uniformly observed across the regions, nor across the provinces. Poverty incidence declined substantially in Cagayan Valley (27.8 to 25.0), MIMAROPA (39.1 to 37.2), Bicol (45.4 to 43.3), Western Visayas (34.2 to 31.7), Central Visayas (37.2 to 33.6), Zamboanga Peninsula (48.1 to 42.8), and CARAGA (51.8 to 42.0). A slight decrease in poverty incidence can be observed in Central Luzon (15.8 to 15.6); while we observed almost the same, or slightly higher incidence in Metro Manila (5.3 to 5.4), Cordillera Administrative Region (28.6 to 28.7), and CALABARZON (14.3 to 14.3). Substantial increases in poverty incidence, however, were observed in the ARMM (49.7 to 52.9), particularly in the provinces of Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur and in SOCCSKARGEN (38.9 to 45.8), particularly in North Cotabato and Cotabato City. Slight increases were observed in regions Eastern Visayas (43.8 to 45.4), Northern Mindanao (42.1 to 43.1), and Davao Region (33.4 to 34.5). After we have seen the second quarter 2012 GDP figures, we somehow anticipated these results. While the economy grew by 5.9 percent, which was later revised to 6.0 percent, in the second quarter 2012, we noted that the agriculture sector growth had been slow-moving with a contraction in the fishery sector. Upon observing these results, we took this up with the Economic Cluster and, as a result, the DBM initiated a Disbursement Acceleration Program Part 2. Agencies were asked to identify which projects could be implemented immediately, particularly those that would be implemented outside the NCR and across the regions. Hence, there had been many public works that were undertaken during the second half of 2012. The PPP Center also did its part, working double time to roll out a number of projects before the year ended. All these, while observing fiscal prudence. We think that this was the reason for the build-up of confidence and, thankfully, the private sector followed cue during the latter half of 2012. This had also been the reason why we instructed the NSCB to reduce the time lag in reporting these very important indicators so that we could implement timely responses from different sectors. Although this first semester result on poverty incidence is not the dramatic result we wanted, we remain hopeful that, with the timely measures we are now implementing, the next rounds of poverty statistics will give much better results that will reflect the governments massive investment in human development and poverty reduction, which understandably needs time to take full effect. Laying down the possible reasons behind these results as well as the steps to address them, we must note that the problems of the agriculture sector at the time were varied. Some were seasonal, like in sugar; some were externally driven or were in response to declining world prices like in coffee; but some were structural, like in fisheries; and some were due to diseases like in mango and seaweeds. Of course, in the end, we know that if the farmers had other sources of income, then these temporary problems need not be so marked. This is the reason why we are taking a more holistic approach and have subsumed agriculture development under the broader umbrella of rural development. The main indicator of success is not volume of production, but the incomes of farmers. Visible under-employment in agriculture is a persistent problem that always comes up in labor survey results. This means that agriculture sector workers work less than 40 hours a week, perhaps because there is not much demand for labor in their areas; and they are looking for additional work, possibly because the wages they receive are not enough to meet their needs. This problem will now be addressed by one of the components of the Action Plan for Employment Generation being crafted by the Human Development and Poverty Reduction Cluster. If the problem of visible under-employment in agriculture is addressed, then incomes of farmers would increase, poverty incidence would decrease, and we would not be compromising food security in the country. Although we cannot control the incidence of disasters and natural calamities, and we had quite a few in 2012, we can mitigate its negative impact. If we can forecast the likelihood of the onset of the event, we can predict the areas that could be affected. Project NOAH of DOST and the various maps drawn up by the MGB have come in handy in the latter part of 2012. What remains to be done is to design a protocol to fully utilize this technology, as well as the institutional response mechanism.

Problems with peace and security played a substantial role in the increased poverty incidence in the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, North Cotabato and Cotabato City. The past incidences of armed conflict instilled fear and retained the perception of uncertainty that reduced economic activity in the area. This is the reason why we have not faltered in our pursuit for lasting peace in the region. We have accomplished a milestone with the signing of the Framework Agreement towards the latter part of 2012. There is still a lot of ground to cover, and we rally behind the peace negotiators on both sides, so that finally, we can deliver on our shared aspirations to the peoples of the Land of Promise. Finally, the problem of poverty requires a comprehensive, multi-pronged, multi-sectoral solution involving many stakeholders. We are making use of the current effort to update the Philippine Development Plan to effect this solution. This was a directive from the President himself, and it requires the participation of all government agencies, all levels of government, private sector, civil society and others. The poverty results reported to us recently demonstrate the diversity, not only of existing geo-economic conditions across regions, but also the different responses to policies on growth and development. For this reason, the updated PDP will explicitly consider the regional dimension in crafting the strategies for development. We are serious about the fight against poverty and we are mindful of our commitments to the MDG, but most especially, the Social Contract of the President with the Filipino people. As a researcher of development, I know that these problems take some time to be resolved. But now that I wear a government hat and join my fellow public servants here in forwarding the inclusive development agenda, I cannot help but be impatient about delivering results. Let me reiterate, that with the various programs and projects we have put in place and with the help of everyone, most especially those in government and business, we remain hopeful that the next round of results on poverty incidence would show substantial improvement. Once again, we would like to thank the statistical community. We wholly appreciate these timely releases of statistics. We look forward to receiving the next set of data soon so we can study them very carefully and promptly develop an Action Plan to address the issues drawn out by these statistics. Maraming salamat po. A pleasant day to everyone. |TOP| PHL Ambassador bids farewell, donates painting to United Nations Environment Programme Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph 23 April 2013 Outgoing Philippine Ambassador to Kenya and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Domingo D. Lucenario, Jr. paid a farewell call on high officials of UNEP at the United Nations Office (UN) in Nairobi on March 20. During his farewell call, Ambassador Lucenario offered his congratulations to UNEP for the success of the 1st Universal Session of the Governing Council which was held from February 18 to 22. On behalf of the Philippines, Ambassador Lucenario also donated to UNEP the painting, Mag -Ina sa Kalakalan by renowned Filipino painter artist Bonnie Jimenez. Mr. Jamil Ahmad, Secretary to the Governing Council and the Committee on Permanent Representatives to UNEP, received the painting on behalf of the organization. The painting was rendered using acrylic on canvass. It depics the image of a mother and child overwhelmed by the degradation of the environment but hopeful for the future and their hope for a better life through a new world environment order represented by the UNEP. The painting is now displayed at the UN Office in Nairobi. |TOP| Three stranded Filipino seafarers repatriated from Nairobi Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph 23 April 2013 - Three distressed Filipino seafarers who were stranded at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, Kenya last Easter Sunday, were safely repatriated on April 21, through the combined efforts of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) and the seafarers Philippine recruitment agency, Stella Maris. The three seafarers worked aboard the cargo ship MV Asahi. They are Edgar Tolentino (boson), Boyeto Banila (oiler) and Christopher Sembrano (cook). According to Philippine Consul Donna Feliciano-Gatmaytan, the Philippine Embassy in Nairobi received a distress call from the three who asked the help of the Embassy since they were stranded at the airport after their tickets from Nairobi to Manila via Doha were cancelled by their employer. The seafarers narrated that their work contracts with the ship had already ended and they were on their way back to Manila from the Congo where their ship was docked. They took the plane in Congo to Nairobi, from where they were supposed to take the connecting flight to Doha. When they reached Nairobi, however, they were informed that their tickets were cancelled by their employer, leaving them helpless at the airport and unable to proceed to Manila. Embassy personnel immediately took the seafarers under their care and custody. Expenses for food and basic needs pending repatriation were charged against the Assistance-to-Nationals Fund managed by the DFA. |TOP| DBP first quarter Net Income grows 90% Source: http://www.dbp.ph

Reflecting the countrys strong economicperformance and favourable market conditions, DBP ac hieved a net income of P1.52 billion for the first quarter of 2013. This represents an increase of P720 million which is 90 per cent higher than the Banks net income for the same period last year of P800 million. Total assets reached P327.70 billion, increasing 8.25 percent from the previous P302.73 billion. Net worth is up 12.62 percent at P42.93 billion from P38.12 billion. A major depository of national and local government agencies, DBP hiked its deposits at P148.41 billion, up 16.52 percent from last years P127.37 billion. This also reflects a 7 percent increase in deposits from private individuals and corporations. Capital adequacy ratio remained well above the BSPs minimum requirement of 10% at 23.06 percent. This is 2.95 percent higher than last years level of 20.11 per cent. While gains from securities trading continue to be a major revenue contributor, DBPs net income was likewise boosted by its gross loan portfolio that grew 20.42 percent at P143.77 billion, from P119.39 billion previously. Efficiency ratio also improved from 52.69 percent to 37.82 percent. The Bank remains consistent in its efforts to support the governments national development thrusts, channelling much-needed fi nancial facilities to strategic sectors such as infrastructure and logistics, environment protection, social services involving health care, education, housing and community development, and micro, small and medium enterprises. Just recently, DBP launched its P2-billion Higher Education Loan Program for Students (DBP HELPS) for lending to qualified schools and other educational institutions, for re-lending to poor but deserving students. The program supports the governments commitment to education and poverty alleviation in the Millennium Development Goals, and the Philippine Development Plans Education for All by 2015. Targeting under-banked areas, DBP continues to focus its eff orts on expanding its branch network this year to enhance access to its products and services. Last year, the Bank opened branches in key areas throughout the country, including Carcar, Cebu; Taguig City; Sta. Cruz, Laguna; Batangas City; and Virac, Catanduanes. |TOP| Environmental Ombudsman launches Solid Waste Management Compliance Program Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph The Office of the Ombudsman launched on April 22, 2013, during the annual global observance of Earth Day, the Solid Waste Management Compliance Program that aims to monitor the local governments units compliance with Republic Act (RA) No. 9003 (Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000). In her keynote address during the launching ceremonies at the OMB Function Room, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales noted the Ombudsmans power to direct any officer or employee of the Government to perform and expedite an act or duty required by law. Ombudsman Morales added that as mobilizer of government services, the Office of the Ombudsman has the role of ensuring that basic services are delivered to the people, which includes making the government agencies comply with their duties under R.A. 9003. In his presentation, Deputy Ombudsman (D.O.) for Luzon and Environmental Ombudsman Gerard Mosquera stated that instead of the usual approach of investigation and prosecution, the program tackles the problem of inaction or indifference through what noted environmentalist Atty. Antonio Oposa, Jr. describes as the power of the stationery. Using the Ombudsman letterhead, letters shall be sent to randomly selected national agencies and local government units to request information on their compliance with the provisions of RA 9003, which data shall be gathered and evaluated by a technical working group composed of representatives from the Environmental Ombudsman team and civic organizations, DO Mosquera explained. In next years celebration of Earth Day, the Office plans to recognize the best performing government agencies and local government units in terms of compliance with the solid waste management law, he added Ombudsman Morales, in her speech, cited statistics from the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) showing that only 9 of the 17 local government units in Metro Manila have submitted a Solid Waste Management Plan, while only 414 of the total 1,610 LGUs in the country have complied with the national plan as of 2012, which translates to a 52.9% compliance rate for Metro Manila and a mere 25.7% compliance rate at the national level. In cooperation with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the program is also partnering with environmental groups such as Zero Waste Philippines Inc., Mother Earth Foundation, EcoWaste Coalition, and Bangon Kalikasan Movement. DENR Undersecretary Ernesto Adobo, DILG Undersecretary Austere Panadero, MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino all ex-officio member agencies of the National Solid Waste Management Commission expressed their support and joined Ombudsman Morales in signing the Manifesto of Commitment, along with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) country director Toshihiro Tanaka and representatives of various civic organizations. |TOP|

PDIC to continue processing claims of La Consolacion Rural Bank (Laguna) depositors Source: http://www.pdic.gov.ph The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) announced that it will continue to receive and process deposit insurance claims from depositors of the closed La Consolacion Rural Bank (Laguna), Inc. at the PDIC Claims Counter, 4th Floor, SSS Bldg., 6782 Ayala Avenue corner V.A. Rufino Street, Makati City. Claims may also be filed through mail. The state deposit insurer has already concluded the onsite claims settlement operations for La Consolacion RB at the banks premises last March 27, 2013. PDIC sent notices of payment amounting to P307,000 involving 163 accounts with balances of P15,000 and below where the filing of claims is waived by PDIC. PDIC paid 121 claims during the onsite claims settlement operations involving 97 accounts for a total amount of P24.76 million worth of deposits. As of March 27, 2013, PDIC has yet to receive deposit insurance claims for 99 accounts, or 51% of the total number of accounts of 196 that require the filing of claims. The total amount of deposits covered by these claims is P11.57 million. Depositors who are below 18 years old should submit either a photocopy of their Birth Certificate issued by the National Statistics Office (NSO) or a duly certified copy issued by the Local Civil Registrar as an additional requirement. Claimants who are not the signatories in the bank records are required to submit an original copy of a notarized Special Power of Attorney of the depositor or parent of a minor depositor. The procedures and requirements for filing deposit insurance claims are posted in the PDIC website, www.pdic.gov.ph. The Claim Form, Claim Status Sheet, and format of the Special Power of Attorney may also be downloaded from the PDIC website. In accordance with the provisions of the PDIC Charter, the last day for filing deposit insurance claims in the closed La Consolacion RB is on March 15, 2015. After the said date, PDIC, as Deposit Insurer, shall no longer accept any deposit insurance claim. For more information, depositors may contact the Public Assistance Department at telephone numbers (02) 841-4630 to 31, or e-mail at pad@pdic.gov.ph. |TOP| SMEs must be ready for ASEAN economic integration by 2015 Source: http://www.pids.gov.ph Two years from now, the Philippines and other ASEAN members will be moved toward a single market and production base under the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) by 2015. However, the readiness of our small and medium enterprises (SMEs) for this regional economic integration draws a big question mark. PIDS Vice President Rafaelita Aldaba`s study raises concerns over the weak performance of SMEs despite regional measures implemented in the ASEAN Strategic Action Plan for SME Development 2010-2015 (ASAPSD) and the ASEAN Policy Blueprint for SME Development 2004-2009 (APBSD). A perception survey was conducted to evaluate the impacts of these frameworks. Four SMEs and one government-member of the SME Working Group were surveyed to evaluate the Philippine implementation. Both groups scored low in average effectiveness. Majority of the respondents perceived that the APBSD had limited impact on facilitating SMEs` access to information, market, human resource development and skills, finance, and technology. Likewise, the ASAPSD has been perceived to have little concrete impacts in terms of enhancing competitiveness and flexibility of SMEs in moving toward a single market and production base. In the study, the weak performance of SMEs has been attributed to the large number of barriers that SMEs face, particularly poor access to finance, technology, and skills, as well as information gaps and difficulties in product quality and marketing. Although there are government institutions or agencies responsible for development and technology support of SMEs, the growth of the sector has not been vigorous enough to propel the economy. In 2006, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) dominated the economy and accounted for almost 99.6 percent of the total number of establishments. However, they only accounted for 61.2 percent of the country`s total employment and 35.7 percent of total value added. Firm size distribution has also not changed significantly in the past two decades. Micro enterprises still formed the bulk of MSMEs, with a share of 91.6 percent, whereas medium and small enterprises accounted for only 0.4 percent and 7.7 percent, respectively. The study also notes that that in spite of present programs and policies created for SMEs (e.g., establishment of Small Business Corporation for SME financing), access to finance has remained one of the most critical factors affecting the competitiveness of the sector. Many private banks are still reluctant to lend to SMEs because of lack of credit information and low appreciation of lending to small businesses. More specific issues on SME financing include lack of acceptable collateral, slow loan processing, short repayment period, high interest rates, difficulties in loan restructuring, and lack of start-up funds. |TOP| PSIP II pre-qualified bidders to construct 8 scale models of PPP school buildings Source: http://ppp.gov.ph

Constructions companies Megawide, BF Corporation, DM Wenceslao & Associates and the Vicente T. Lao Constructors/BSP & Co. Inc. will build 2 scale models each of the school buildings under DepEds PPP for School building Project (PSIP II). The four companies were asked to draw lots to determine their assigned construction locations in Pampanga. DepEd chose the site for its proximity to Manila. Megawide will construct one school building in Mexico National High School and another one in San Nicholas Elementary School. BF Corporation will build in Mabalacat Central School and Dr. Adelaido Bernardo National High School. DM Wenceslao and Associates will construct one school building in Cuayan Elementary School and another in Rafael Lazatin Memorial High School. Vicente Lao Constructors/BSP & Co. Inc will construct one each in Ayala High School and Manibuag Libutad Elementary School. The four construction firms should turn over the completed school buildings for evaluation on or before June 17, the deadline for the submission of their technical and financial proposals. The construction of the scale models is part of the requirements stated in the invitation documents for prospective bidders. The PSIP II will be awarded through competitive public bidding as a PPP project using the Build- Transfer scheme under the BOT Law. The PSIP Phase II involves the design, financing, and construction of around 10,679 one-storey and two-storey classrooms, including furniture, fixtures and toilets, in 5,033 public schools in 14 regions nationwide. |TOP|

Last Updated:

23 APRIL 2013

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President Benigno S. Aquino III endorses the Liberal Party (LP) candidates for the May 13, 2013 midterm election from Misamis Oriental Province and Cagayan de Oro City, headed by Cagayan de Oro City Mayoralty candidate Misamis Oriental Governor Oscar Moreno, Misamis Oriental Gubernatorial candidate Misamis Oriental Vice Governor Norris Babiera, CDO Vice Mayoralty candidate CDO Councilor Edgar Cabanlas and CDO 1st District Congressional candidate Klarex Uy, during the meeting with local leaders and the community at the Don Gregorio Pelaez Sports Complex in Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental on Monday (April 22). LP was founded on January 19, 1946 by Manuel Roxas, the first President of the Third Philippine Republic. (Photo by:Jay Morales/ Malacaang Photo Bureau). President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message during the meeting with local leaders and the community at the Don Gregorio Pelaez Sports Complex in Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental on Monday (April 22). Also in photo are Team PNoy candidates that include Aurora Lone District Representative Juan Edgardo Sonny Angara, former National Youth Commission (NYC) chairperson Paolo Benigno Bam Aquino IV, former Akbayan Partylist Representative Ana Theresia Risa Hontiveros-Baraquel, Senators Alan Peter Compaero Cayetano and Francis Joseph Chiz Escudero, former Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) chairperson Mary Grace Poe-Llamanzares, Senator Loren Legarda, former Senators Maria Ana Consuelo Jamby Madrigal and Ramon Magsaysay, Jr., Senators Aquilino Martin Koko Pimentel III and Antonio Sonny Trillanes IV, and former Las Pias Representative Cynthia Villar. (Photo by: Jay Morales/ Malacaang Photo Bureau). President Benigno S. Aquino III is received by Liberal Party (LP) Cagayan de Oro City Mayoralty candidate Misamis Oriental Governor Oscar Moreno, Misamis Oriental Gubernatorial candidate Misamis Oriental Vice Governor Norris Babiera, CDO Vice Mayoralty candidate CDO Councilor Edgar Cabanlas and CDO 1st District Congressional candidate Klarex Uy, upon arrival for the meeting with local leaders and the community at the Don Gregorio Pelaez Sports Complex in Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental on Monday (April 22). LP was founded on January 19, 1946 by Manuel Roxas, the first President of the Third Philippine Republic. (Photo by: Jay Morales/ Malacaang Photo Bureau). President Benigno S. Aquino III distributes baller bands to Liberal Party (LP) members and supporters from Misamis Oriental Province and Municipality of Balingasag, after attending the meeting with local leaders and the community at the Jose Pelaez Roa Park, in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental on Monday (April 22). LP was founded on January 19, 1946 by Manuel Roxas, the first President of the Third Philippine Republic. (Photo by: Jay Morales / Malacaang Photo Bureau). President Benigno S. Aquino III endorses the Liberal Party (LP) candidates for the May 13, 2013 midterm election from Misamis Oriental Province and Municipality of Balingasag, headed by Misamis Oriental Governor Oscar Moreno, Liberal Party (LP) Misamis Oriental Gubernatorial candidate Misamis Oriental Vice Governor Norris Babiera, reelectionist Misamis Oriental 1st District Representative Peter Unabia, Misamis Oriental 2nd District Congressional candidate Jesus Jardin and

reelectionist Balingasag Mayor Alexis Quina, during the meeting with local leaders and the community at the Jose Pelaez Roa Park, in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental on Monday (April 22). LP was founded on January 19, 1946 by Manuel Roxas, the first President of the Third Philippine Republic. (Photo by: Jay Morales/ Malacaang Photo Bureau President Benigno S. Aquino III endorses the Liberal Party (LP) candidates for the May 13, 2013 midterm election from Lanao del Sur Province and Marawi City, headed by Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Gubernatorial candidate ARMM OIC Governor Mujiv Hataman, reelectionists Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Adiong, Jr. and Lanao del Sur 2ndDistrict Representative Pangalian Balindong, Lanao del Sur 1st District Congressional candidate Ansaruddin Adiong and Marawi City Mayoralty candidate Marawi City Vice Mayor Noryasmin Calandada, during the meeting with local leaders and the community at the Provincial Capitol Gymnasium in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur on Monday (April 22). LP was founded on January 19, 1946 by Manuel Roxas, the first President of the Third Philippine Republic. (Photo by: Jay Morales/ Malacaang Photo Bureau). President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message during the meeting with local leaders and the community at the Provincial Capitol Gymnasium in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur on Monday (April 22). Also in photo are Team PNoy candidates that includes Aurora Lone District Representative Juan Edgardo Sonny Angara, former National Youth Commission (NYC) chairperson Paolo Benigno Bam Aquino IV, former Akbayan Partylist Representative Ana Theresia Risa Hontiveros -Baraquel, Senators Alan Peter Compaero Cayetano and Francis Joseph Chiz Escudero, former Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) chairperson Mary Grace Poe-Llamanzares, Senator Loren Legarda, former Senators Maria Ana Consuelo Jamby Madrigal and Ramon Magsaysay, Jr., Senators Aquilino Martin Koko Pimentel III and Antonio Sonny Trillanes IV, and former Las Pias Representative Cynthia Villar. (Photo by: Jay Morales/ Malacaang Photo Bureau). President Benigno S. Aquino III is received by Liberal Party (LP) Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Gubernatorial candidate ARMM OIC Governor Mujiv Hataman, reelectionists Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Adiong, Jr. and Lanao del Sur 2nd District Representative Pangalian Balindong, Lanao del Sur 1st District Congressional candidate Ansaruddin Adiong and Marawi City Mayoralty candidate Marawi City Vice Mayor Noryasmin Calandada, upon his arrival for the meeting with local leaders and the community at the Provincial Capitol Gymnasium in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur on Monday (April 22). LP was founded on January 19, 1946 by Manuel Roxas, the first President of the Third Philippine Republic. (Photo by: Jay Morales/ Malacaang Photo Bureau). President Benigno S. Aquino III distributes baller bands to the crowd after leading the groundbreaking of the College of Information Technology (CIT) Building at the Mindanao State University main campus in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur on Monday (April 22). The proposed 3-storey CIT building is designed to improve the colleges capability and capacity in discharging its function as a collegiate unit competitively and in delivering its services as the IT service arm of the University more effectively and efficiently. (Photo by: Jay Morales/ Malacaang Photo Bureau). President Benigno S. Aquino III leads the groundbreaking of the College of Information Technology (CIT) Building at the Mindanao State University (MSU) main campus in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur on Monday (April 22). The proposed 3-storey CIT building is designed to improve the colleges capability and capacity in discharging its function as a collegiate unit competitively and in delivering its services as the IT service arm of the University more effectively and efficiently. In photo are Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao OIC Governor Mujiv Hataman Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Adiong, Jr. MSU president Dr. Macapado Muslim, (Photo by: Jay Morales/ Malacaang Photo Bureau). President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the groundbreaking of the College of Information Technology (CIT) Building at the Mindanao State University (MSU) main campus in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur on Monday (April 22). The proposed 3-storey CIT building is designed to improve the colleges capability and capacity in discharging its function as a collegiate unit competitively and in delivering its services as the IT service arm of the University more effectively and efficiently.(Photo by: Jay Morales/ Malacaang Photo Bureau). President Benigno S. Aquino III, assisted by Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao OIC Governor Mujiv Hataman lowers the time capsule during the groundbreaking of the College of Information Technology (CIT) Building at the Mindanao State University (MSU) main campus in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur on Monday (April 22). The proposed 3-storey CIT building is designed to improve the colleges capability and capacity in discharging its function as a collegiate unit competitively and in delivering its services as the IT service arm of the University more effectively and efficiently. In photo are Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Adiong, Jr. MSU president Dr. Macapado Muslim, Ph.D. (Photo by: Jay Morales/ Malacaang Photo Bureau). President Benigno S. Aquino III is received by Mindanao State University (MSU) president Dr. Macapado Muslim, upon his arrival for the groundbreaking of the College of Information Technology (CIT) Building at the MSU main campus in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur on Monday (April 22). The proposed 3-storey CIT building is designed to improve the colleges capability and capacity in discharging its function as a collegiate unit competitively and in delivering its services as the IT service arm of the University more effectively and efficiently. (Photo by: Jay Morales / Malacaang Photo Bureau).

Thank You and God Bless !!!!